The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has released updated skilled nursing quality data, including the first public reporting of new Transition of Health measures within the Quality Reporting Program. These measures capture whether a reconciled medication list is shared during transfers or at discharge and reflect CMS’s continued emphasis on safe, well-coordinated transitions. Early national averages indicate that most providers already follow strong communication practices.
The refresh also introduces public reporting on whether residents are considered “up to date” on COVID-19 vaccination, though shifting federal guidance has created uncertainty about coding expectations. Until CMS provides additional direction, providers are encouraged to rely on clinical judgment and maintain clear communication with residents. More detail on the updated measures is available through McKnight’s coverage.